Read Online Fire from the Rock by Sharon Draper - Free Book Online

when they want us to answer on a dime?
    While the adults laughed, Sylvia squirmed. When they finally got over all the pleasantries, and Miss Washington had eaten two pieces of pie and a slice of cake as well, she looked directly at Gary and said solemnly, “You know they’re going to integrate Central High this fall, don’t you, son.”
    â€œYes, ma’am. It’s about time,” Gary replied boldly.
    â€œHow do you feel after your unfortunate incident last night? You healing up all right?”
    Gary shifted in his seat. “Yes, ma’am. I’m about healed up. Just a little sore. Mama says whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. I’ll be strong enough to fight again soon.”
    Sylvia cringed. She knew Gary had no chance with words like that.
    â€œWe’re looking for bold, brave, nonviolent students, Gary,” Miss Washington said gently. “Do you understand what I’m saying?”
    Gary looked away from the intensity of her gaze.
    Mr. Patterson spoke up. “Integration of the schools won’t be happening soon, will it, Sister Ethel? At least not in our lifetime.”
    Sylvia thought her father sounded hopeful, like she did when she knew the last piece of cake was gone, but she asked for it anyway.
    â€œIt’s going to take place this year. 1957. September. In your lifetime, and the lives of your children.”
    Mr. Patterson shook his head. “I’ll believe it when I see it.”
    â€œThe buses were integrated without any trouble last year. We didn’t have to do a boycott or anything drastic like they did in Montgomery,” Miss Washington offered.
    â€œYes, I know, but this is not the same,” Mr. Patterson said.
    â€œThe university is integrated,” Miss Washington continued.
    â€œYes, for a few. We think that’s good,” Sylvia’s mother said. “But I keep remembering the looks of hatred on the faces of Mrs. Crandall and the rest of those white women as those colored students registered for class. You know the old saying, ‘If looks could kill’ ...” Mrs. Patterson’s voice trailed off and Sylvia rolled her eyes at her sister.
    Donna Jean sat next to her, eyes large, hoping, Sylvia knew, that she wouldn’t get sent out of the room during this juicy grown-up talk.
    â€œWe teachers have been asked to submit names of qualified students to help implement the integration,” Miss Washington continued.
    â€œYou don’t think Gary’s name should go on the list?” Sylvia’s mother asked, a look of concern and amazement on her face.
    â€œNo, not Gary,” Miss Washington replied. Gary scowled then looked away.
    â€œYou’re not suggesting we submit Sylvia Faye to the kind of beating Gary got this week?” Mrs. Patterson asked incredulously.
    â€œThere is nothing to indicate that she would be in any physical harm. The school board is grudgingly trying to implement the law of the land.” Miss Washington shifted in her seat.
    â€œThis is no job for a girl,” Sylvia’s father said forcefully, “especially my little girl!” Sylvia didn’t agree with him about the little girl part, but she was grateful that he wanted to protect her.
    â€œThose women ...” Sylvia’s mother began.
    â€œAre just that. Women with too much time on their hands,” Miss Washington said emphatically.
    â€œAnd malice in their hearts,” Sylvia’s mother said quietly.
    â€œSylvia Faye is an excellent student,” Miss Washington continued. “I am very proud of not only her academic abilities, but her poise and thoughtfulness as well. She could handle the pressure.”
    â€œI don’t know, Miss Washington. It’s a wonderful honor and opportunity, but it’s also potentially very dangerous. Let us think about it for a few days.” Mrs. Patterson had started nervously collecting dishes and dusting the spotless coffee